James D. Nygaard

Nygaard

James D.

Age 86

Died peacefully on February 3, 2021 at the age of 86. Jim was born on July 11,1934 in Duluth to J. Sigurd and Berniece (Prescott) Nygaard and grew up near Chester Bowl. He graduated from Duluth Central High School in 1952, where he was a drummer in the marching band and achieved the title of Eagle Scout. He earned a BS degree from UMD in 1956 while also receiving an athletic letter in skiing.

He married Ann Olson at Trinity Lutheran Church in Duluth in 1956. Ann and Jim had six children all of whom survive him: Karen (Stephen) Hollingsworth, Gary (Sue), Jerold (Jojie), Susie (Pete) Schlosser, Darrell (Lisa), and Dan (Vicki). Ann died in 1998. In 2003 Jim married Patricia (Kratz) Johnson and welcomed her 4 children into his family: Mike (Kathy), Debbie (Mike) Hawthorne, Tom (Shannon), and Kristine (Derek) Salmi.

Jim was a career educator, first at Onamia High School and then at Mounds View High School where he was a member of the Industrial Arts Department for over 30 years. He also taught behind-the-wheel Driver’s Education. A member of the MN National Guard for 42 years, Jim retired in 1994 at the rank of Command Sergeant Major. He was a faithful patriot. A lover of the outdoors, Jim spent many happy times camping, hunting, and fishing. He enjoyed spending much of the summer at the family cabin in Cotton, MN and much of the winter in Gulf Shores, AL. His knowledge and love of US History, especially of the Civil War, led to many road trips to various battle sites, with Gettysburg, PA being a favorite. Jim was an active member of Trinity Lutheran of Lake Johanna for many years. In addition to his wife and children, Jim is survived by his sister, Claudia Cohen of Duluth, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and a multitude of friends and co-workers.

Private burial at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Due to COVID, memorial services are pending.

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